Heated Tub or Cold Plunge Tub: Which Type to Choose for Your Garden

Outdoor bathing tubs fall into two functionally distinct categories, which are often blended together in catalogues under the common label ‘tub’ or ‘whirlpool’. A heated tub keeps the water at a bathing temperature of 36–40°C and is intended for longer soaks. A cold tub operates at a temperature close to ambient or lower and is intended for a brief cold plunge. Choosing the right type depends on the intended use, the available infrastructure and planned operation — not on appearance.

Types of Tub by Heating Method

Tub with Integrated Heating

The heater is part of the tub’s own structure and is in direct contact with the water. This arrangement reduces the number of external components and simplifies installation — the tub is functionally complete as a single unit. Heating the volume of water to bathing temperature takes 2–4 hours with this type, depending on the volume of the tub and the type of heater.

Tub with External Heating

The heater stands outside the tub and is connected to it by hoses with a circulation pump. Separating the heating from the tub’s structure simplifies maintenance and allows the heater to be replaced without any intervention on the tub itself. Heating time falls within a similar range to integrated heating, at 2–4 hours.

Tub Without Heating (Cold Tub)

A cold tub does not contain a heating system. It is built for a brief plunge at a temperature close to that of the surrounding air or supplied water, typically combined with a sauna as part of an alternating hot-and-cold routine. Fewer components mean a lower purchase price and simpler operation, with no need to deal with fuel or an electrical connection for heating.

Tub Material Construction

• Acrylic — a smooth, non-absorbent surface resistant to both chemical and mechanical effects, available in plain colours as well as marble-effect finishes.
• Fibreglass — similar operating properties to acrylic, a smooth, non-absorbent surface resistant to temperature changes.
• Stainless steel — higher mechanical resistance and a different visual character compared with acrylic or fibreglass.

In every case, the structure stands on an impregnated wooden base, reinforced with stainless steel tensioning straps. A one-inch drain valve is a standard feature. The exterior cladding is available in spruce, thermowood, thermo triple, WPC composite or charred wood, allowing the tub to be matched with other elements of the garden.

Dimensions and Capacity

Price Bands (Basic Configuration)

• Cold tubs: €1,142–4,989
• Heated tubs, small and medium sizes: €1,211–2,599
• Heated tubs, large sizes and premium finish: €2,358–4,119

The prices shown are for the basic configuration. The final price depends on the options selected in the configurator — hydromassage, air bubbles, underwater LED lighting, insulation, a cover, steps, sand filtration or an electronic temperature controller.

Which Type Is Suitable for Whom

A Heated Tub Is More Suitable If:

• You plan longer soaks at bathing temperature
• You want to use the tub on its own, without needing to combine it with a sauna
• You are looking for a functional unit with a minimal number of external components (integrated heating) or simpler servicing of the heater (external heating)

A Cold Tub Is More Suitable If:

• You plan to use the tub in combination with a sauna as part of an alternating hot-and-cold routine
• You are looking for a lower entry point for investment
• The priority is operation without fuel or an electrical connection for heating

Consultation and Configuration

Luxurelax supplies bathing tubs with integrated and external heating, as well as cold tubs for cold plunges. The configurator allows you to choose the tub material, heater type, cladding and additional equipment to suit the specific conditions of your garden. The consultation is free and non-binding.